The rugged construction of our tubular skylights can easily withstand the harshest weather conditions including hurricanes and tornadoes. Both the dome and skylight flashing are exposed to the outdoors and therefore have been precision-engineered to combat the weather elements. The dome is made of thick, heavy-duty acrylic that can withstand the impact of flying debris in a storm (see video below). It also incorporates an aluminum stress collar to accommodate temperature fluctuations and prevent cracking and leaking.
Our flashing is manufactured using seamless commercial pure grade aluminum. Because there are no seams, water cannot enter the skylight system. The forward sloping design of the flashing also helps water run off the unit. The flashing is secured to the roof using (8) heavy-gauged screws to hold it in place. The silicone seal around the flashing ensures that it’s water-tight.
The Natural Light Tubular Skylight under went numerous tests by the Hurricane Test Laboratory, Inc. in Riviera Beach, Florida and successfully passed their tests to earn the “hurricane approved” rating (HTL01097). Testing included a missile impact test where lumber was shot at a high speed directly at the skylight dome. The dome sustained no damage.
Three tornadoes ripped through central Florida on February 2, 2007 killing at least 19 people and destroying hundreds of homes. The first tornado hit a retirement community, The Villages. It was a high end EF-3 tornado with winds exceeding 160 mph.
The tornado was no match for the Natural Light Tubular Skylight. Several Natural Light skylights had been installed in this community and all withstood the severe weather and sustained no damage!